Ijebu monarchs endorse Yayi for Ogun governorship, back Abiodun’s Senate bid

The Ijebu Traditional Council of Obas has unanimously endorsed Senator Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, and his running mate, Alhaja Kudirat Abiodun Adegunwa Balogun, for the 2027 Ogun State governorship election, while also throwing its weight behind Governor Dapo Abiodun’s bid for the Ogun East Senatorial seat.

The endorsement was announced on Friday during a meeting at the Awujale’s Palace in Ijebu-Ode, where Governor Abiodun formally presented the APC governorship ticket to the 56-member council of traditional rulers.

Speaking on behalf of the monarchs, the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Jaiyeoba Adebajo, said the council’s decision was based on Adeola’s record of attracting development projects and infrastructure to Ogun State.

He disclosed that the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, had publicly expressed support for Adeola’s governorship ambition before his death and pledged to back his emergence as governor.

Adebajo also revealed that the Olu of Ilaro and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, had sought the support of the Ijebu Traditional Council for Adeola’s candidacy, adding that the request received the council’s unanimous backing.

Governor Abiodun described Adeola as a worthy successor capable of sustaining the developmental strides of his administration.

“I have found a worthy successor in Senator Olamilekan Adeola. He possesses business experience, political maturity, leadership skills and the capacity to continue the progress we have made over the past seven years,” the governor said.

Responding, Adeola thanked the governor, APC leaders and the traditional rulers for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to consolidate on the achievements of the current administration if elected.

He said his administration would leverage major economic opportunities expected from the proposed deep seaport in Ogun Waterside, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the state’s anticipated emergence as an oil-producing state.

“Ijebuland is already on the path of economic growth. If elected, I will build on that progress and ensure the region contributes significantly to the economy of Ogun State and Nigeria,” he said.

Adeola also reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and promised continued consultations with traditional institutions and stakeholders across the state as preparations for the 2027 election gather momentum.

The visit attracted a large crowd of residents, party supporters and stakeholders who welcomed the APC governorship candidate as he continued consultations across Ogun State’s three senatorial districts.